A major public safety victory was announced by Peel Regional Police today. Project Winner, led by the 22 Division Community Intervention and Response Team (CIRT) resulted in the seizure of over $1 million in illegal drugs, a loaded Glock 19 handgun with an extended magazine, and more than 1,000 rounds of ammunition.
Mayor Patrick Brown praised the “best of the best” officers for their courage and professionalism. “When Chief Nishan Duraiappah and his team have the resources to do their job, the results speak for themselves,” Mayor Brown said. “This is not just about drugs or guns, this is about saving lives.”
A Community-Led Success
The investigation began with a tip from local residents, proving how critical community cooperation is in tackling crime. CIRT officers, trained in proactive, community-first policing, built on that information through intelligence gathering and targeted enforcement.
Their work uncovered drug trafficking activity linked to a Toronto resident conducting transactions throughout Peel. Search warrants executed on October 31 led to the massive seizure of cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamines, and the illegal firearm. The accused now faces 11 criminal charges, including drug trafficking and firearms offenses, and remains in custody.
The Impact of CIRT Teams
CERT teams are now active across all four divisions in Peel, supported by funding from Ontario’s Community Safety and Policing Grant. Their mandate:
Rapid response to emerging crime patterns
Strong community presence and relationship-building
Targeted enforcement in high-risk areas
In 2025 alone, CERT officers across the region have made over 1,000 arrests and seized significant amounts of illicit property and cash.
Partnerships That Keep Brampton Safe
Mayor Brown highlighted the critical partnership between the City, Peel Regional Police, and the Ontario government. He thanked Solicitor General Michael Kerzner and Premier Doug Ford for their continued support in strengthening frontline policing. “Every gram of fentanyl removed from circulation is a potential overdose prevented,” Mayor Brown said. “Every gun taken off the street is a tragedy that never happens.”
He also issued a clear message to drug traffickers preying on vulnerable residents:
“In Peel Region, you will be caught, charged, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
A Safer Future for Brampton
Mayor Brown reaffirmed the City’s commitment to public safety:
“You can have everything in a community, but if you don’t have a sense of security, it’s all for naught. Together with strong policing, strong partnerships, and strong community support, we are making Brampton safer for everyone.”
